GENERAL INFORMATION
GENERAL INFORMATION
BRAZIL
Brazil is a land which, according to a popular saying: “was blessed by God and is naturally beautiful”. A visit to Brazil means the unexpected discovery of a place of warm tropical sun and 5000 miles of white-sand beaches, of coconut groves and mango trees, of music and dance, of baroque colonial towns and villages, plus impressive cities of 21st century opulence and sophistication. Brazil´s allure is not only in the climate, the landscapes and the architecture, it lies in the people themselves, whose sense of cordial hospitality and friendship create the perfect environment for your special interest travel.
SOUTH REGION
IGUAZU FALLS
Iguaçu Falls, located on the border of the State of Parana, is one of the most famous attractions in all of Brazil. These 275 massive waterfalls are divided between Argentina and Brazil and provide vastly different views and experiences depending on what side they are viewed from. Within the surrounding city of Foz do Iguaçu the main tourist attractions go hand-in-hand with the most exuberant scenery provided by nature and mankind. In the “Land of the Falls,” visitors can revel in the splendor of the natural forests, rivers and lakes, as well as the world’s largest hydroelectric work, the Itaipu Dam. Travelers also have the unique opportunity to experience the falls and attractions not only in Brazil but in Ciudad del Este (Paraguay) and Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) as well.
CURITIBA
One of the most prosperous and organized cities in all of Brazil, Curitiba is a world-wide example of urbanism solutions, education and environmental protection. This Brazilian metropolis, located in southern Brazil, was nominated as the American Cultural Capital in 2003, an initiative of the Organization of the American States (OEA). Curitiba was founded in the 17th century as a gold-mining camp, and became the capital of the state of Paraná in 1854, experiencing rapid growth following the 1940’s. Its 1.6 million people are a synthesis of several different cultures of the immigrants that arrived in the city during the 19th century and early 20th century.
FLORIANAPOLIS
Florianópolis, capital of Santa Catarina, occupies one third of the island state. Access to and from the mainland is made easy via two public bridges, one of which is Brazil’s largest suspension bridge. The island is a large beach community, and in addition to the bay and ocean beaches the city features a large lagoon – Lagoa da Conceicao. Visitors reminisce in the exhilarating vistas from hillside overlooks as well as the preserved ruins of three old forts dating back from the colonial period. The shoreline is divided into three sections: north, south and east coasts.
PORTO ALEGRE
Porto Alegre, capital of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, is located on the banks of the Guaiba River. The area is known for a variety of site-seeing options such as Estátua do Laçador in the entrance of the city, the Usina do Gasômetro, the Gaucho Tradition Center for strolling, and the amazing Rio Guaíba sunset. The city also serves as a very interesting place to visit for those who wish to learn more about the “gaucho” culture.